One of your top priorities for your residential home should be keeping energy bills under control.

The easiest way to lower energy bills is to have your windows and doors inspected and make sure they are air-tight. Here are steps you can take to ensure your energy bills are lower in the fall.

New Doors and Windows

Installing new doors and windows by a certified specialist gives your home protection against environmental elements. By using a sliding door, you will block out cold air from entering your home in the winter and maintain cool air indoors during the summer. The U.S. Department of Energy advises homeowners to check windows and doors for air leaks. Other tips include adding treatments, coverings and exterior shading.

How Appliances Drain Energy

Every home uses multiple appliances that run up energy bills such as refrigerators, freezers, and ovens. These appliances tend to account for the most energy usage besides heating and cooling. Smaller items such as desktop computers and television sets use less energy but can still lead to high energy bills if they are on ten or more hours per day.

It’s good practice to turn off all lights and as many appliances as possible when you are away from the home. Another way to cut costs on appliances is to find out how much you are charged by your utility company per kilowatt hour of electricity and plan accordingly.

Learning from Professional Inspection

The best way to find out if your home needs weatherizing or updating to become more energy-efficient is to get a professional inspection. It’s important that you work with trained and certified professionals in order for warranties on new products to be valid. Any type of modifications to your home should be according to local codes and manufacturer instructions. Here are some of the signs that you need new doors or windows:

  • peeling paint around window sills or doors
  • doors or window are difficult to open
  • a crack of light can be seen under a door
  • moisture between window panes
  • old appearance

Improving home comfort begins with making sure your doors and windows don’t have leaks. Getting your home inspected before the cold season can help cut maintenance bills. Contact us at Millers to learn more about working with us on insulation, windows or doors. Our certified energy experts can answer your questions and provide free estimates.